 | 2001 BMW 7 Series The ultimate enthusiast's luxury sedan.
By John Matras,
New Car Test Drive .com |
Overview
Big cars are not supposed to be agile. But BMW's 7 Series sedans hustle down winding roads like two-seat roadsters. The BMW 740i is powered by a 4.4-liter V8; equipped with an optional Sport Package that offers great handling, it is a luxury car for the enthusiast. Model Lineup
BMW's 7 Series comes in two different lengths, with two different engines. 740iA ($62,900) is the shorter member of BMW's big 7 Series sedan line. 740iL ($66,900) and 750iL ($92,100) have a longer wheelbase for limousine-like rear legroom. 740iA and 740iL are powered by a 4.4-liter V8; 750iL comes with a magnificent 5.4-liter V12. 740iL and 750iL Protection Line light-armored vehicles ($99,100 and $124,400 respectively) improve security with body armoring, bullet-resistant glass and run-flat tires. No major changes were made for 2001, though a Motorola digital StarTac cellular telephone with a Mayday feature has been added to the long list of standard equipment. Other features include high-pressure headlight washers, auto-leveling Xenon low-beam headlamps, a six-CD changer with 14 speakers and four subwoofers, onboard navigation, rain-sensing wipers. Also standard: front side airbags and head protection system. Like other BMWs, the 7 Series comes with free scheduled maintenance for 3 years or 36,000 miles. A Sport Package is available that includes l8-inch wheels, redwood interior trim and, depending on the model, a sports suspension or Steptronic transmission. Other options include a cold weather package ($950) that includes heated front seats and steering wheel, headlamp washers and ski bag; rear side-impact airbags ($550); break-resistant security glass ($2,600).
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